Meet Jennifer Brown, CUSA Board Member

We are thrilled to welcome Circles USA’s new board member, Jennifer Brown. Our extraordinary board is the governance team that oversees CUSA operations, advises on strategic directions, and contributes to specific projects that enhance what CUSA has to offer to our community of practice.

Get to know Jennifer in this Q&A, where she discusses her background, leadership ambitions, and the values that align her with Circles USA’s mission of building community to end poverty.

Welcome, Jennifer! What brings you to Circles USA?

Safety Net programs have been a part of my life since free summer camps and Upward Bound at Johnson C. Smith. It is my passion and an honor to work within my community to assist everyone in having full access to the American Dream.

How does the Circles model of poverty alleviation speak to you, your values, and your experiences with “surviving” & “thriving” in the U.S.?

Circles USA attacks all the stereotypes of being poor in America and has a tested and proven formula to change a family, not just in the next 180 days but for generations to come. Most importantly, the level of respect that Circles USA offers is inspiring for their like-minded partners and their Circle Leaders.

What are you most looking forward to in your board member role?

I am ready to get to work, expand our Circles chapters in the USA, and learn from Circles USA to assist the greater Charleston area in having long-term success in fighting the war on poverty.

Will you share some fun facts about where you come from, who is in your community, and what you love to do?

I was only supposed to be in Charleston, SC for two years to attend grad school and then move to Florida. Well, my plan was put into place on March 31, 1997. I am still here. I enjoy the rich history that Charleston offers. I am cheering for the Gamecocks and learning the game of baseball, all thanks to my son Graham.